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Filipino Migrant Youth in Rome Join Youth Groups from SVD Parishes in Spain for the Javierada Pilgrimage
Marlon Bobier Vargas, SVD
In many parts of Europe today, vocation animation among young people remains a significant pastoral challenge. Secularization and the many competing voices shaping youth culture often make it difficult for young people to listen to deeper questions about faith, purpose, and vocation. Yet experiences such as pilgrimage continue to offer young people meaningful spaces to encounter God, reflect on their lives, and walk together in faith.
During the pilgrimage, the youth from Rome were joined by youth groups from two SVD parishes in Spain—Alcorcón and Leganés. The encounter brought together young people from different cultural backgrounds who shared moments of prayer, reflection, and friendship while walking together in faith.
Several SVD members accompanied and guided the youth throughout the activities. Among them were Fr. Jerome Asidigbe, SVD; Fr. Nico Espinosa, SVD; Fr. Paul Amuzu, SVD; Fr. Ronie Pinca, SVD; and Fr. Gabriel Galus, SVD, who provided pastoral guidance and encouraged the young pilgrims in their journey of discernment.
They were also joined by Sr. Manju Lugun, SSpS, and SVD seminarians Deni, Melkisedek, Jehadul, Theovanus, Douglas Silva da Cruz, and Victorino Adriano, whose presence offered the youth a concrete witness of missionary formation and commitment to service in the Church.
Before the day of Javierada, the youth from Rome visited several important places connected to the spiritual journey of St. Ignatius of Loyola. They prayed at the Sanctuary of St. Ignatius of Loyola and celebrated Holy Mass at the Chapel of Conversion, the place associated with the decisive turning point in Ignatius’ life. The group also visited the Cathedral of Pamplona, linked to the historical event that led to Ignatius’ conversion.
Moments of reflection continued at the Alto de Perdón, a well-known point along the Camino de Santiago where pilgrims often pause to contemplate their journey. In Estella, the group also visited the Basilica of the Virgen del Puy, the SVD community, and the Editorial Verbo Divino, where they learned more about the missionary work of sharing the Word of God through biblical publications.
The highlight of the pilgrimage took place on March 14, 2026, when the youth joined approximately 15,000 pilgrims in La Javierada, the traditional walk to the Castle of Javier, the birthplace of St. Francis Xavier. Established in 1886, this pilgrimage continues to gather thousands of people each year who walk together in faith and devotion.
The youth also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parishioners of the Iglesia de Villatuerta, who warmly welcomed the pilgrims and generously prepared a shared meal of paella, creating a joyful moment of fellowship and hospitality.
For the young participants, the pilgrimage became more than a journey across places. It became a moment of listening, encounter, and discovery—reminding them that the call of God is often heard in prayer, reflection, and simple steps taken together along the road of faith.
